The Rebirth of Banner Elk
- Ingrid Lemme
- Jul 22
- 8 min read
Updated: 4 minutes ago
Mountains, Meals and Miracles: The Rebirth of Banner Elk, North Carolina
Escape from Paradise with Ingrid Lemme-Chalut
Mountains, Meals and Miracles: The Rebirth of Banner Elk, North Carolina
A slightly abbreviated version of this story will appear in the August issue of the Montauk Sun,
in print from The Hamptons to Manhattan and online at MontaukSun.com
Tucked into North Carolina’s High Country, Banner Elk is where the mountains meet the soul—and where community truly means everything. Once rattled by flood waters from Hurricane Helene, this resilient town didn’t just recover—it came back stronger, prouder, and more united than ever. During our recent summer visit, we experienced a journey through breathtaking landscapes, unforgettable meals (we’re unapologetic foodies!), and stories of resilience that define this close-knit mountain community. From Grandfather Mountain to family-run restaurants and farms, we witnessed firsthand how Banner Elk rediscovered its old glory—together.
Our adventure began with a scenic drive to Grandfather Mountain, a majestic peak rising 5,946 feet above sea level. Famous for its panoramic views, wildlife habitats, and the iconic Mile High Swinging Bridge, Grandfather is more than a landmark—it’s a symbol of endurance for the region.
In the Nature Center lobby, beneath the statue of Mildred the Bear, we met Landis Wofford, VP of Communications, and Molly Dowdle, Director of Marketing and Communications. Over lunch at Mildred’s Grill, the two shared how, in the flood’s aftermath, Grandfather Mountain provided critical support—volunteers, resources, and emergency logistics.
Crossing the Swinging Bridge, the metaphor became clear: like this town, the bridge may sway—but it holds. Standing there, peering out over the vast Blue Ridge horizon, we were struck by how deeply nature and humanity intertwine here.
Afterwards, we returned to the Nature Center and spotted a black bear napping peacefully beneath massive boulders—one of many unforgettable moments. Mildred the Bear, once the mountain’s beloved mascot, became a legend for her gentle nature and longevity—she lived to 26, a remarkable age for a black bear in captivity—symbolizing the spirit of Banner Elk long before the storm.
We stayed at Banner Elk Glamping, a mountaintop retreat just minutes from downtown. Owners Joseph and Marianella Nitti are passionate travelers—Joseph met Marianella, who’s originally from Mexico, while they were both in China. Marianella was inspired by seeing one of these domes during their travels, and together they decided to bring the concept to Banner Elk.
The Geodome is all about comfort and views: there’s a king-size bed with plush linens, a comfy sofa, an extra-large bean bag, and panoramic windows looking out over the vineyards, mountains, and countryside.
Photos ( 3 above) by owner Joseph Nitti, a renowned mountain photographer.
You’ll find a Keurig coffeemaker, tea kettle, refrigerator, and high-speed WiFi inside. The spa-style bathroom, accessed through a private “wine barrel” entrance, is just steps away. You can soak in your own private hot tub as the sun sets, stargaze through the dome’s skylight, or relax in a swinging hammock listening to the sounds of nature. Each dome has its own Solo smokeless fire pit (just bring your own wood) and a Blackstone grill for cooking breakfast or dinner.
There’s a vintage wine barrel counter outside, perfect for sipping coffee or wine while you take in the scenery. A peaceful stream winds through the property, with a common area for relaxing by the water. We also checked out their covered wagon—just as cozy as the domes, though you’ll walk a bit farther to reach your private bathroom.
And if you want to explore more, Banner Elk Winery is just down the path for wine tasting and live music. The location couldn’t be better: peaceful and secluded, but only five minutes from downtown’s restaurants and shops.
A short walk led us to the idyllic Banner Elk Winery, where we met tasting room managers Andy Martin and his wife Stephanie with their daughter Avery. Established in 2005, it was the first commercial winery in Avery and Watauga counties. Their award-winning wines reflect the rugged terrain and nuanced fruit of the Blue Ridge region. I had to remind my husband a couple of times that we had dinner reservations in town. Reserve at least a couple of hours to truly appreciate the setting and a flight of their wines.
After freshening up at our dome, we drove into town for dinner at Stonewalls Restaurant, a Banner Elk institution since 1985. When floodwaters swept through, Stonewalls pivoted—rolling out their food trucks to feed their neighbors.
Co-owned by Scott Garland and Chef Tim Heschke, both culinary school grads, the duo purchased the restaurant in 2016 and revived the space with heart and skill. My pistachio-crusted trout was divine, and Marcus raved about his prime rib, carved à la minute and so tender he cut it with his fork. The fresh, abundant salad bar and that mile-high peach cobbler? Pure comfort.
That night, rain danced on our dome. What started as a storm became a lullaby, turning into one of the most romantic, peaceful nights of our trip. Cocooned under the dome with the soft tapping of rain overhead and no distractions, we realized how little we needed to feel completely restored—just each other, the mountains, and a deep exhale under the stars.
The next morning brought a hearty breakfast at the cozy Banner Elk Café, a staple of the community for nearly 40 years. The scent of applewood bacon, biscuits, and strong coffee filled the air as locals and Highland Games visitors packed in. Their specialty coffee and tea bar gave us just the kick we needed.
Shortly thereafter we were off to Apple Hill Farm, perched high on a ridge and home to photogenic alpacas, goats, donkeys, pigs and guardian llamas. Though founder Jane Lee Rankin wasn’t on-site for our morning tour, a young guide gave us a wonderful introduction.
Later that afternoon, we met Jane in her outlet shop downtown and picked up her memoir, Farm Family: A Solo Mom’s Memoir of Finding Home, Happiness, and Alpacas. Her story of resilience mirrors Banner Elk’s own: navigating storms with grit and grace.
At 37, cancer survivor Jane Lee Rankin finds out she’s pregnant—with no support from her boyfriend or father. Determined to raise her child alone, Lee moves to Banner Elk, NC, and starts an alpaca farm from scratch. Available on Amazon
Over a hearty lunch at the Banner Elk Café, we sat down with Tourism Director Nancy Owen, who shared how her husband—the town manager—helped guide Banner Elk through its worst flooding.
With no power and no safe passage in or out, the community pulled together in ways no one had seen before. Sitting across from Nancy, I got the sense that this town runs on more than just mountain air and coffee. During our conversation, Nancy opened up about those harrowing days when flooding left Banner Elk stranded, and how her and her husband became a steady hand amid the chaos.
Next, we headed to the Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster, North Carolina’s first and only alpine coaster. With individually controlled carts reaching speeds up to 27 mph, the loops, twists, and waves delivered a fast-paced mountain thrill. Once was enough for me ;) !
Strolling through town later, we discovered the Thursday afternoon Farmers Market, then found BE Scooped, an idyllic ice cream parlor located in the Village Shops at the heart of downtown Banner Elk. It’s a sweet little ice cream and coffee spot run by two efficient and charming young twin sisters. We double-dipped—and double-tipped.
That evening, we dined at LP on Main (Louisiana Purchase Food & Spirits)—a refined yet family-run gem tucked right in the center of Banner Elk. From the lavender-lined entrance to the hand-tied napkin flowers, every detail felt intentional and inviting. The food? Exceptional.
We began with Seared Scallops over chorizo potato salad, brightened with chimichurri and aioli, and a Crab Cake drizzled in a bold monk mustard cream sauce. Another standout dish was the roasted Cauliflower with cherry brown butter vinaigrette, almond, and local chard—surprisingly complex and deeply comforting. Our salads—an arugula mix with grilled South Carolina peaches and roasted corn, and a juicy Heirloom Tomato Salad—tasted like peak summer.
For mains, Marcus enjoyed the fresh catch of the day, while I chose the grilled Salmon, served over marinated cucumber, tomato, and okra, with a silky Campanelle Pasta surprise on the side—tossed with velouté, roasted chicken, ribbons of ham, and herbs. It was indulgent and unforgettable. Dessert was their famous Peach Cobbler, warm and gently sweet with fresh fruit and a cloud of real whipped cream.
We ended the night by meeting Chef Patrick Bagbey, his lovely wife Laurie (the soul of the front of the house), and their charismatic 11-year-old son—a true family-run restaurant full of pride, flavor, and heart.
After dinner, we joined the Thursday Night Concert in the Park. Families danced, teens played corn-hole, and the music rolled over the hills. There were no speeches or fanfare—just music, laughter, and joy. We chatted with a couple from Charlotte who come every summer “just for this”—and a local fiddle player who said he’s played this same stage since he was 14.
Banner Elk doesn’t just host a concert—
it invites you into its rhythm, and my husband danced up a storm ...
After another peaceful dome sleep and a final breakfast among Highland Games attendees, we headed to Valle Crucis with Craig Distl, Banner Elk’s PR representative.
The handsome guy on the left.
There, we visited the Mast General Store, a time capsule of creaky wood floors, a barrel stove, and even a vintage post office. When the flood hit, locals showed up with shovels and mops to reopen the store.
Meet Patrick Keleher, the Mast Store's Post Master
My husband, who is a fussy shopper, found that they had the most elaborate selection of walking and hiking shoes and bought a pair. The excellent 5 cent coffee, on the honor system, he appreciated as well.
Later we listened to Mast Store's heartwarming history from Sheri Moretz, the resident storyteller.
On our return, we paused at Wildcat Lake. With paddle boats, a white-sand beach, walking trails, and precious lilypads in bloom, it was a peaceful close to our journey. Owned by Lees-McRae College, the lake is a community treasure.
Back in town, we toured the historic high school—once a flood relief center, now home to Ensemble Stage and a thriving arts exhibit. During the days after the flood, the historic school became a lifeline, a staging area: inside, the most organized shelf displays you could imagine, stocked with anything victims might need, from diapers and wipes to food and everyday basics.
Under Artistic Director Gary Smith and Managing Director Lisa Lamont, the theater delivers world-class productions in this beautiful mountain town. Gary has been a professional Stage Director and Actor for over twenty years. Prior to his current commitment to the performing arts in the North Carolina High-Country, Gary was the Artistic Director for "Teentime", an award winning touring theater in Florida that presented topical plays to middle and high school students across the state. Gary has also appeared on stage as an actor in over 40 productions in venues across the country and has directed over 100 professional stage productions.
A couple of doors over, we explored the light-filled rooms of the local arts and crafts gallery. The space is a curated trove of handmade Appalachian goods—pottery, textiles, woodworking, and more. I picked up a set of beautiful industrial aluminum napkin rings from Dirk Brown of Blue Mountain Metalworks. Functional, minimal, and full of charm. This gallery is more than just a gift shop—it’s a living, breathing celebration of local talent.
Just before heading out of town, we made a flavorful stop at Sorrento’s Italian Bistro—a family-run gem with a charming covered outdoor setting in the heart of Banner Elk since 1983.
We shared a classic pizza and fresh salad, savoring the warm hospitality and culinary traditions passed down through three generations of the Palazzo family.
And it’s not just the food that feeds the soul—Sorrento’s is also an art lover’s delight. Local artist Kent Paulette has turned the restaurant into a vibrant gallery, with striking portraits that include the Rolling Stones and a glamorous Audrey Hepburn gracing the walls. Banner Elk, you surprised us once again.
For a town with less than 1,500 residents, Banner Elk has an amazing culinary scene. So amazing, in fact, that Banner Elk is known as the culinary hot spot of the NC High Country. --- What we discovered in Banner Elk wasn’t just a mountain escape—it was a town reborn. Its old glory never left—it just needed to be rediscovered, hand-in-hand, by the very people who never let go. www.BannerElk.com
Until next month for another interesting location.
Yours in travel,
Ingrid Lemme-Chalut
Escape From Paradise, Travel Writer & Blogger
🎥 Ambassador for Seven-Stars.com & aTasteofHistory.org
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